For a "large protruding disc" at L5 & S1.....should a patient have the "open discectomy" or the newer "endoscopic microdiscectomy"?

What if your Neurosurgeon doesn't perform microdisectomies....does that mean he lives in the stone age? Do you recommend finding a NS that does?

Is it true that although a microdiscectomy may have a shorter recovery period, the traditional open discectomy ensures that the job is done properly and right the 1st time??

Thanks.

Sorry, after some research I see there is a difference beteween the Endoscopic Microdiscectomy and a regular Discectomy....however, my ??? still stands....what if your surgeon only performs a traditional "open discectomy"?

Thanks.

My understanding has been that success rates for microdiscectomy and discectomy are fairly similar, and that the micro-d has a shorter recovery time.

I'd suggest getting a second opinion from a spine specialist, who will probably have more experience with these types of surgeries and will be more likely to be familiar with the newest techniques.

As far I know the available options are

1. Laminectomy: Portion of lamina removed, still called microdiscectomy, about 3-4 inch cut, with possible muscle stripping.

2. Microdiscectomy: 3-4 inch cut with possible muscle stripping.

3. Endoscopic discectomy: Use of large endoscope (traditional 1-2 inch), avoids muscle stripping.

4. METRX discectomy: Use of METRX endoscope, avoids muscle strippping and the hole is less than an inch. (Great option but relatively new technique).

5. Microspine: Less than 1/2 to1/4 inch hole. Many people confuse this technique with IDET and percutaneous methods. Only two or three surgeons perform this in North America (Florida and California).

Hope this helps!!!